What is the requirement for edge connections in soldering as per IPC-A-610?

The requirement for edge connections in soldering as specified by IPC-A-610 is that they must encompass the total joint area. This means that the solder joint must adequately cover the entire area where the connection is made to ensure proper mechanical and electrical integrity. Achieving this encompasses not just the presence of solder, but also good solder fillet formation, which ensures that the joint can withstand stresses and thermal cycling without failure. This requirement is critical for ensuring reliable connections in electronic assemblies, as it helps prevent issues such as cold solder joints or weak mechanical bonds that could compromise the overall functionality of the device.

Other considerations like protective coatings, identification of joints, and soldering on only one side may play a role in specific contexts or applications, but they do not address the fundamental requirement of fully encompassing the joint for edge connections as stated in the IPC-A-610 standard.